Melissa “Missy” Dawn Fields captured hearts with her beautiful smile, sparkling blue eyes, and sense of humor. She attended Eastern Kentucky University, where she majored in psychology and planned to work with at-risk children. She was involved with Toys for Tots, taught swimming to children and adults, and was a lifeguard for more than five years. Everyone knew that Missy was destined to change lives.

At the young age of 16, Missy told her family that she wanted to donate her organs if anything should happen to her. At age 18, Missy became a regular blood donor and was on the list to be a bone marrow donor.

On Mother’s Day, May 9, 2004, 22-year-old Missy was involved in a fatal car accident. “We became a donor family with no clue how that would change us, as well as help us, in our grief journey,” said Missy’s mother, Janie. “Missy’s father was somewhat resistant to donating her organs even though he knew of her decision. He did not want any more trauma inflected on his little girl – she had been through enough. Nevertheless, I insisted. Now he will tell you without hesitation that he is proud of Missy’s decision, and it has brought him peace. Knowing others may have a new chance of life because of our daughter, gives us hope for tomorrow.”

Janie continued that “The greatest fear a parent has is to lose a child; after losing a child, the fear then changes to their child may be forgotten. Missy will never be forgotten, not only because of her gift of life, but also because of the many lives she touched during her 22 years. Our family has also been given the gift of life – it comes from the wonderful people at Kentucky Organ Donor Affiliates. Our grief journey would have been so much more difficult without their love and support. The entire staff has always made sure that Missy, as well as her family, matters. We, as a family, take great pride to tell others we are a donor family.”